The liver performs many essential functions in the proper functioning of the body. Besides storing nutrients from digestion, it helps in the metabolism of sugars, fats and proteins and cleanses the body by acting as a filter. This organ is one of the largest in the body. It can weigh on average between 1300 and 1600 grams, is particularly sensitive to the frequent consumption of alcohol, foods that are too rich in sugar and fat such as industrial products, processed foods and large meals.
Similarly, the stress caused by the constraints of daily life can affect it.
To maintain liver health, it is advisable to consume foods rich in fiber and essential nutrients such as magnesium, calcium, phosphorus and iron.
Here are 12 foods to favor to take care of the liver.
1. Garlic
The best known active ingredients that are present in garlic are allicin, querticin and selenium. Thanks to these elements, it participates in the activation of enzymes promoting the detoxification process. To stimulate the liver, you can add garlic to all your salad, meat and vegetable dishes. It is also a natural antibiotic, particularly beneficial for the regeneration of an already diseased liver.
2. Foods high in fiber
Fiber-rich foods help reduce fat and protect against liver disease. So oatmeal and green vegetables such as spinach, cabbage, beans are to be preferred in your diet. In addition, the latter are providers of vitamins and also contain antioxidants, very useful for purifying the body.
3. Artichoke
The artichoke acts on bile secretion and thus improves digestion. The active substances are mainly located in the leaves. You can prepare a herbal tea or an infusion of artichoke leaves or eat this vegetable in a salad.
4. Dark chocolate
Contrary to popular belief, dark chocolate with a cocoa content of more than 70% is beneficial for the liver. Its magnesium contribution contributes to protect this organ. In addition, the antioxidants contained in dark chocolate slow down cell aging and reduce the risk of inflammation. Magnesium also helps to replenish energy and relieve stress.
5. Turmeric
Turmeric has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is recommended to fight against many diseases including those of the liver. It helps cleanse the body, aids digestion and helps prevent cancer.
6. Nuts
Oilseeds such as walnuts, Macadamia nuts, Brazil nuts, Pecans, almonds or hazelnuts are rich in phosphorus. Their consumption helps purify the liver and facilitate lipid metabolism, which prevents the accumulation of fat that causes liver disease.
7. Grapefruit
Grapefruit is a beneficial food for cleansing the liver. Thanks to naringinin, a flavonoid present in this fruit and which helps burn fat. It contributes to the purification of the organism and prevents the accumulation of lipids in the hepatic cells. In addition, this fruit is rich in pectin and vitamin C.
8. Rosemary
Rosemary has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It stimulates the secretion of bile by the hepatic cells, facilitates digestion and thus participates in the elimination of waste and the purification of the organism. These restorative benefits help tone the body and fight physical fatigue. Young shoots are known to be more active than other parts of the plant.
9 Green tea
Green tea contains theine and helps reduce fat. Rich in antioxidants, it is also diuretic. Its polyphenol content allows it to slow down the assimilation of lipids and carbohydrates and reduces the amount of calories absorbed while improving cardiovascular health.
What are the foods to avoid?
Foods to limit in order to preserve liver health are foods that are too sweet, meals that are too salty or too fatty. Indeed, these foods can in the long term cause inflammation in the liver which will have more and more difficulty in processing them. The resulting buildup of toxins can lead to cell damage. It is also advisable to consume less alcohol, at the rate of one to two glasses per day depending on whether you are a woman or a man.
